Preliminary study on localized microwave sintering of lunar regolith
Andrea Gatto, Silvio Defanti, Elena Bassoli, Alessio Mattioni, Umberto Martini, G. Incerti
Abstract
The pioneering objective of a permanent outpost on the lunar surface requires the development of technologies for in situ resource utilisation . Consolidation of lunar soil into products is imperative to avoid unaffordable transportation burdens. The paper addresses the feasibility of the Local Microwave Heating effect as a promising technology for sintering lunar regolith based on microwave radiation , with a simple solid-state generator requiring a relatively modest amount of energy. Experiments were conducted using terrestrial simulants with physical and chemical properties similar to those of lunar regolith . Laboratory equipment with a purpose-built microwave actuator was designed and manufactured with “Design for Embarking” in mind. Experiments have demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed technology with a reasonable degree of confidence. Solid artefacts were obtained with proper setting of microwave parameters and appropriate scanning strategy, proving the feasibility of regolith sintering with a localised microwave source A roadmap for future development of the technology has been established. • Preliminary study on Localized Microwave Sintering of Lunar Regolith: Highlights. • Localized Microwave Heating is effective to consolidate lunar regolith simulants. • A solid-state generator with an open-end antenna is a promising lightweight low-energy system for ISRU. • Microwave heating of regolith is feasible regardless of the simulant's ilmenite content. • The technique can be used to produce 3D parts using an additive approach.